The Effect of a Training Program Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) on Sexual High-Risk Behavioural Intentions in Female Prisonors, Vakil Abad Prison, Mashhad, Iran, 2013

Background and Aims: High-risk sexual behaviors are of the most important risky behaviours in the area of sexual and reproductive health. It seems that educational programs based on health behavioural change theories are of the most basic measures in prevention of social damages. Therefore, the present study was carried out to determine the effect of a training program based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) on sexual high-risk behavioural intentions in female prisonors in Vakil Abad Prison, Mashhad, Iran, in 2013. Methods: This was a pre-experimental one group designed study on 40 women gotten prisoned due to doing high-risk sexual behaviours. Data were collected using self-structured questionnaires including demographics information, data related to sexual activity and constructs of the theory of planned behaviour. The training program was designed based on the constructs of this theory and was then implemented as seven 70-minute sessions. The questionnaires were completed before, immediately after, and four weeks after completing the training program. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics tests via SPSS software. Results: There were significant differences between the mean scores of attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intention for abstinence from high-risk sexual behaviors in female prisoners before, immediately after and four weeks after implementation of the training program (P < 0.001 for all). Conclusion: Developed health educational program on the basis of theory of planned behavior was an effective strategy for abstinence from high-risk sexual behavioral intention in jailed women.